Lighting and Learning

A recent research has shown that a simple change in color temperature of ambient lighting can influence academic performance and overall work quality. In fact, they suggest that LED color temperatures of 5000 K (neutral) are ideal tints for reading and that a 6500 K color (cool) favours cognition, attention and mental effort. Color in the range 3500 K (warm) brings about a more relaxed mood compatible with recreational activities. Keep this in mind next time you purchase lightbulbs for your home.

The Anatomy and Biology of Anxiety

Here is an excellent infograph of the brain’s way of functioning with regards to anxiety. When speaking of stress, the term “HPA axis” usually comes to mind. Indeed, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis plays a key part in the perception and impact of stress. However, this axis, though important, is only a chapter of the greater theatrics occurring in the brain of an individual experiencing anxious behaviour. Read More

Technology and memory

An excellent article from the BBC website on the link between technology and memory. What with the outsourcing of information and our reliance on smartphones and computers, is the over-reliance on new technology actually eroding our memory and cognitive abilities? Read More

Your Brain on ADHD

Up to 11 percent of school-age children and 4 percent of adults are estimated to have attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder. The following article helps illustrate the way our brain works, how ADHD interferes with its functioning and where medication intervenes to help upregulate one’s overall functioning.